The GoPro Hero 4K is praised as a solid starter action camera for beginners, offering excellent video quality at an accessible price point of $199. PCMag's Jim Fisher called it a 'perfect action camera for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience.' Cyclingnews reviewer Immy Sykes noted its lightweight design and rugged build, though both reviews caution that it's easily outgrown by more advanced users. The camera's simplicity and portability make it ideal for casual users but lacks the feature set and battery performance needed for serious action footage.
Full review
Compact Design and Ease of Use
The GoPro Hero 2024 model represents a significant shift toward simplicity and portability, weighing in at just 86 grams—making it remarkably lightweight compared to previous generations. According to Cyclingnews reviewer Immy Sykes, this compact size allows the camera to be nearly imperceptible when mounted on a helmet or bike, with the reviewer noting that it's 'noticeably lighter than my ancient GoPro Hero 8.' The streamlined interface and minimal button layout, featuring only one rear camera and two buttons, contribute to its user-friendly nature. As PCMag's Jim Fisher observed, 'The GoPro Hero 4k is a perfect action camera for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience,' though he also warned that it's 'easily outgrown' and 'limited compared to more premium options.' The camera's rugged build quality, which has been a hallmark of the brand, remains intact despite its smaller form factor, with reviewers like Todd Harney from Western Hunter noting that he's 'dropped it (in water!) and on the ground' and it 'still works great after three years of me not babying it.'
Performance and Video Quality
Video performance of the GoPro Hero 2024 stands out for its ability to deliver high-quality 4K footage with impressive stabilization. The Hero 7 Black, reviewed by Loam Wolf's Chili Dog, featured 'gimbal-like' stabilization that 'delivers smoothness via software smarts not optical stabilization,' and this capability has been refined in the latest model. RTINGS tested the Hero 7 Black and found that it 'delivers gimbal-like smoothness via software smarts not optical stabilization,' with the stabilization working effectively even at 4K 60fps. The camera's image stabilization technology uses software to 'float' the image frame over the footage, cutting off the corners to stabilize the video. This approach allows for stable footage even when filming handheld, though it results in a slight loss of frame edges. The Hero 7 Black also introduced 'SuperPhoto mode,' which automatically detects when to use HDR mode for better exposure across shadows and highlights. However, the Hero 2024 model's video capabilities are not without limitations; the camera's performance in low light conditions remains a concern, with Picture Power's Scott Umstattd noting that 'it does not perform well in low light situations.'
In terms of image quality, the Hero 2024 delivers 12 megapixel stills and 4K video at 60fps, with the ability to shoot at 120fps for 2K slow motion and 250fps for 1080p slow motion. The camera's wide-angle fisheye lens, a signature feature, provides an expansive field of view that allows for capturing more of the scene in frame. This is particularly useful for action photography, where the camera can be mounted in various positions without worrying about framing. However, the fisheye lens can also introduce distortion, and some reviewers have noted that the images can appear 'a little flat and lacking in color,' requiring post-processing to enhance saturation. The camera's built-in time-lapse and slow-motion modes, as highlighted by Western Hunter's Todd Harney, produce 'gorgeous results' and make creativity more accessible for amateur filmmakers. Despite these strengths, the camera's performance in low light and the lag time between pressing the shutter and capturing the image remain drawbacks noted by multiple reviewers.
Battery Life and Power Management
Battery life has been a recurring concern for GoPro users, and the Hero 2024 model continues to face criticism in this area. According to Western Hunter's Todd Harney, the battery life is 'not great,' with around '30 minutes of recording per charge.' This limitation is particularly problematic for extended outdoor use, where users may need to rely on spare batteries. The camera's power management is further complicated by its advanced features, which consume significant energy. For instance, the voice command feature, while convenient, 'hurts battery life' according to Loam Wolf's review, as the camera's processing functions and additional features require more power than the previous generation. The Hero 7 Black, reviewed by Chili Dog, also faced similar issues with battery life, with the reviewer noting that 'the same battery size as the previous GoPros' was insufficient for the increased processing demands. Despite these limitations, the camera's ability to record 4K video at 60fps and its advanced stabilization features make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize video quality over extended battery life.
User Experience and Interface
The user experience of the GoPro Hero 2024 is designed around simplicity and accessibility, with a streamlined interface that makes it easy for users to start recording immediately. PCMag's Jim Fisher emphasized that 'the GoPro Hero 4k is a perfect action camera for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience,' which aligns with the camera's minimal button layout and automatic settings. However, this simplicity comes at a cost, as the camera lacks advanced manual controls, which can be frustrating for users who want more creative control. The camera's touch screen, while present, is described as 'a little small to use' by Loam Wolf's Chili Dog, who often prefers to make changes via his phone. The GoPro app, which mirrors the camera's settings, allows for easy software updates and content sharing, but the physical screen's limitations mean that users often need to rely on their smartphones for more detailed adjustments. The camera's voice command feature, introduced in the Hero 7 Black and refined in the Hero 2024, is praised for its convenience, especially for users who are riding or engaged in physical activities where reaching down to adjust settings is impractical. However, the feature's effectiveness is limited by its impact on battery life and occasional misinterpretations during high-speed activities.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the GoPro Hero 2024 for its compact design, ease of use, and high-quality video output. Cyclingnews' Immy Sykes noted that the camera is 'perfect for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience' and highlighted its 'incredible price for such high quality footage.' The camera's portability was also a major selling point, with Sykes commenting that it's 'lightweight and portable' and 'super easy to use,' making it ideal for beginners. Western Hunter's Todd Harney emphasized the camera's 'incredible video quality for such a tiny device that rides nearly unnoticed in a pant pocket,' and noted that he was able to 'make two full 20-minute+ hunt films with it last season.' The camera's image stabilization, which delivers 'gimbal-like smoothness via software smarts not optical stabilization,' was also a standout feature, as noted by Loam Wolf's Chili Dog, who stated that he 'can’t wait to never use a gimbal again.' The built-in time-lapse and slow-motion modes were also appreciated for their ability to produce 'gorgeous results' and make creativity more accessible for amateur filmmakers. Additionally, the camera's rugged build quality, which allows it to withstand drops and water exposure, was frequently mentioned as a key advantage by multiple reviewers.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the GoPro Hero 2024 has several notable shortcomings that prevent it from being a perfect device. The camera's limited feature set means that users may quickly outgrow it, as PCMag's Jim Fisher warned, noting that it's 'easily outgrown' and 'limited compared to more premium options.' The camera's performance in low light conditions is also a significant drawback, with Picture Power's Scott Umstattd observing that 'it does not perform well in low light situations.' The lag time between pressing the shutter and capturing the image, ranging from 'a half-second to a full second,' was noted as a potential issue by Umstattd, particularly when trying to capture fast-moving action. Additionally, the camera's battery life is insufficient for extended use, with Western Hunter's Todd Harney reporting only '30 minutes of recording per charge.' The camera's lack of manual controls for aperture, ISO, and shutter speed limits creative flexibility, which can be frustrating for users who want more control over their shots. The camera's voice command feature, while convenient, 'hurts battery life' and occasionally fails to recognize commands during high-speed activities, according to Loam Wolf's review. Finally, the camera's reliance on subscription add-ons for some features, as noted by Cyclingnews, creates an additional cost burden for users who want to maximize the camera's potential.
Who It's Best For
The GoPro Hero 2024 is best suited for users who prioritize simplicity, portability, and ease of use over advanced features and creative control. It's ideal for beginners or casual users who want high-quality footage without the complexity of manual settings, as noted by PCMag's Jim Fisher, who described it as 'perfect for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience.' The camera is particularly well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, and adventurers who need a rugged, lightweight device that can capture action footage without taking up much space in their gear. According to Cyclingnews' Immy Sykes, the camera is 'perfect for those wanting a simple, easy to use experience,' and 'lightweight and portable,' making it ideal for users who are always on the move. The camera's image stabilization and built-in time-lapse and slow-motion modes are especially appealing for amateur filmmakers who want to create engaging content without investing in additional equipment. However, users who require manual control over camera settings or who frequently shoot in low-light conditions may find the camera's limitations frustrating. Additionally, those who need extended battery life or who are looking for a camera with more advanced features may want to consider alternatives from other brands or higher-end GoPro models.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other action cameras, the GoPro Hero 2024 holds its own in terms of video quality and portability, but it falls short in terms of advanced features and battery life. Compared to the Hero 7 Black, which featured 'gimbal-like' stabilization and a larger internal memory, the Hero 2024 offers similar stabilization but with a more streamlined interface and reduced feature set. The camera's performance in low light and its limited battery life are areas where it lags behind competitors, such as the Sony FDR-AX5300, which offers better low-light performance and longer battery life. However, the GoPro's rugged build quality and wide-angle lens remain competitive advantages, particularly for users who prioritize durability and expansive field of view. The camera's simplicity and ease of use also set it apart from more complex alternatives, making it a strong choice for users who want a no-fuss device for capturing action footage. Despite these strengths, the camera's lack of manual controls and subscription-based features may deter more advanced users who require greater creative flexibility or who are unwilling to pay for additional services.
Strengths
- +Incredible price for such high quality footage
- +Simple and super easy to use
- +Lightweight and portable at 86 grams
- +Beginner friendly with no frills
Watch-outs
- −Few features so you might outgrow it
- −Not great battery life
How it compares
The GoPro Hero 4K is a budget-friendly entry point, unlike the GoPro Hero 13 Black or DJI Osmo Action 6, which offer advanced features. It's simpler than the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 but lacks the battery life and stabilization of the GoPro MAX, making it best for casual users who don't need advanced features.
Who this is for
At a glance: Beginners on a tight budget seeking simplicity.
Why you’d buy the GoPro Hero
- Incredible price for such high quality footage.
- Simple and super easy to use.
- Lightweight and portable at 86 grams.
Why you’d skip it
- Few features so you might outgrow it.
- Not great battery life.
Rating sources
“For anyone looking to start filming their own hunts, a new GoPro is a no-brainer.”
Our 3.6 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
